Gvt should address housing stress

The government should provide a long-term strategy for housing in the Federal Budget, according to a leading property group.

High housing stress from low levels of affordability on the back of a high demand low supply ratio needs to be addressed said the Property Council of Australia.

Residential Development Council executive director Caryn Kakas explained that the housing sector should be looked at in its entirety.

"We have called on the Government to include in its forward estimates the establishment of a growth fund that embraces the Government’s own competition style policy. This would create a competitive tendering process across all housing sector providers to ensure the delivery of innovative and affordable housing outcomes."

Ms Kakas said that the government should be guaranteeing more incentives through the National Rental Affordability Scheme (NRAS).

"It is crucial that any long-term strategy to increase the delivery of housing also removes the impediments to supply. These include the forward funding and timely delivery of infrastructure to communities; ensuring the adequate supply of land for housing; unlocking urban renewal opportunities; and, streamlining planning application processes," she said.